Oral health plays a vital role in supporting one’s ability to speak, chew, and interact socially with comfort. Conversely, oral health problems can reduce a person’s quality of life. With this awareness, the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) held a community service activity by providing free dental check-ups for residents around the Pagilaran Tea Plantation, Batang Regency, on Wednesday, 22 May 2025.
The examinations and education were carried out by dental specialists, including residents undergoing specialist training. One of them, drg. Arvin Wijaya, a resident in conservative dentistry, explained that most of the cases found were quite complex and could not be treated on-site. “The equipment we brought was only suitable for mild cases. For more severe conditions such as infections or internal tissue damage, patients were referred to the nearest community health center (puskesmas),” said drg. Arvin. All procedures performed by residents were supervised by specialist dentists.
In addition to the examinations, patients also received education on proper treatment for dental caries. Many people still assume that decayed teeth must always be extracted. In fact, with proper treatment, teeth can often be preserved. “We also educated patients that not all decayed teeth must be extracted. Many cases can actually still be saved,” added drg. Arvin.
Furthermore, drg. Arvin Wijaya explained two main procedures to save decayed teeth from extraction. First, Root canal treatment– a procedure to clean and remove infected nerve tissue inside the tooth, followed by filling it with special material to maintain its strength and normal function. This is usually performed when decay has reached the dental pulp.
Second, Dental filling – performed on small or moderate cavities by cleaning the decayed portion and filling it with restorative material. This prevents further damage and preserves the natural function of the tooth. With these two procedures, many decayed teeth can still be saved and remain healthy.
Meanwhile, Waryanto Hadi, the event coordinator, stated that the program received an enthusiastic response from the local community. A total of 65 residents participated in the free check-up, with some arriving early before the event began. Meanwhile, Waryanto Hadi, the event coordinator, stated that the program received an enthusiastic response from the local community. A total of 65 residents participated in the free check-up, with some arriving early before the event began.
Author: Fajar Budi Harsakti
Contributor: Ahmad Muttaqin
